S’more Cookie Fun!
JG The Juliette Gazette
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for
Sweet Cookie Car!
It’s Back
Winter 2018 A Publication of Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska
The Girl Scout
COOKIE CAR is BACK!
JG The Juliette Gazette
The Juliette Gazette is a triannual publication of Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska.
JG Staff: Publisher/Designer Lucia Kroeger Renz Editor/Writer Shannon Peterson
TOYOTA LA VISTA
Beep Beep
WIEN ! M
Photo Editor Michelle Cleary Contributor Kassy Jo Novak Copy Editors Melissa Breazile Jasmine McCain
We are supported in part by:
Get ready for the sweetest Girl Scout Cookie Program yet! Due to last year’s smashing success and thanks to our amazing partnership with Baxter Toyota La Vista, we will once again be giving away a sweet Toyota RAV4* during the Cookie Program! The 2018 RAV4 will be awarded through a random drawing to ONE person at the conclusion of the Cookie Program. Girl Scout volunteers, parents, and friends are eligible to enter to win the Girl Scout Cookie Car! A code must be entered when registering to win the car. We will share that code with Girl Scout members, who will then share the code with cookie customers. You cannot require customers to purchase cookies to get the code, but you can ask everyone if they want to buy Girl Scout Cookies! The contest runs from February 2 to March 9, 2018.
GirlScoutsNebraska.org PUBLICATION OFFICE: 2121 South 44th Street Omaha, NE 68105 Date of Publication, February 2018 Printed by Kingery Printing Effingham, Illinois PRINTED IN U.S.A.
*Prize is a 3-year lease on a cookie-decorated and professionally wrapped 2018 Toyota RAV4, courtesy of Baxter Toyota La Vista. Entrants must meet eligibility requirements and must be residents of Nebraska (excluding Dakota County) or Carter Lake, Iowa. See complete contest rules at BaxterToyota.com/GirlScouts.
Get all the details at
BaxterToyota.com/GirlScouts
On the Cover: Cookie bosses Josie Roger and Olivia Knox from Lincoln Troop 20667.
Please recycle or pass me on to a friend.
Back for
S’more C Success! KIE T
us
elicio Still D
he most popular new cookie in the history of the Girl Scout Cookie Program is back in 2018! The tradition of making s’mores in the outdoors was popularized by Girl Scouts as early as the 1920s. Now our Girl Scout S’mores are once again bringing that delicious tradition indoors!
ady to e R t e G
Meet this year’s adorable Cookie Program mascot,
Elenant! the Elepha
Start your Girl Scout Cookie adventure and grow your entrepreneurial skills by visiting www.GirlScoutsNebraska.org/cookies.
2018 Girl Sco Program Dateut Cookie s:
February 2 - M arch 4: Cookie Progra m dates February 9: Bo oth sales begin April 16: Recog nition distribution b egins
This Cookie Season, Invest in Your Skills!
Y
ou know that handling money and managing finances are a crucial part of being a successful Cookie CEO. But do budgeting and finances really affect your day-today life? Oh, yes! By earning your Financial Literacy badges, you’ll learn how to save money, build credit, research, comparison shop, and negotiate. These are the exact skills you’ll need to navigate your financial future.
The best part is that you can work on your Financial Literacy badges while you earn your Cookie Business badges. Now that’s what we call maximizing your resources! Find all the badge requirements in The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting or in the online Volunteer Toolkit! Finish the steps to earn your badges – and take pride in knowing you are ready to make smart money decisions throughout your life!
Winter Issue 2018
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Big Birthday Bashes Bring
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P ride
hat happens when a go-getting Girl Scout troop meets fellow Lincoln children in need?
Big ideas, big action, and a big assist from Disney!
Junior Troop 20568, a 14-member strong group of Roper Elementary fourth-graders, toured a Lincoln homeless shelter called People’s City Mission last year. The girls were so moved that they decided to find new ways to help the children who live there. Now, the troop throws a monthly birthday party for all the kids living at People’s City Mission.
to Troop As these innovators come up with fun new plans each month, they are also working to earn their Bronze Award. The troop even applied for – and won – a Disney Be Inspired grant to help pay for the birthday parties. Troop members take turns planning the parties. Every party features Girl Scout-led games, snacks, prizes, a library from which every child gets a book, and a stuffed animal “adoption station.”
Here’s what members of Troop 20568 say about their birthday parties: Alexa: I have learned that when I see the
Brooklynn: I feel proud of myself knowing
kids’ faces and they smile it makes me smile. My favorite thing about the parties is that it is super fun for the kids but also so fun for us to throw the parties.
I am helping others. My favorite thing about these parties is that it makes me happy!
Ali: My favorite thing about the birthday parties is to see the kids at the parties have a fun time. I think these parties are important because the kids at the City Mission don’t get parties like we do.
Amaya: I have learned that it makes the parents and the kids at the City Mission happy. My goal is to keep doing these birthday parties and to not stop.
Avery: I love seeing all the happy faces on everyone and knowing they are having fun. I have learned that I am helping kids out and I am making a difference in their lives.
Bianca: I learned that the kids at the mission really enjoy it and it is a lot more fun to do something for the kids and see them experience the fun.
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Learning to create balloon animals added “pop” to the parties.
Camryn: The best thing about the parties is I like how all the kids get different stations to go to. My favorite thing about the birthday parties is every kid gets something like a prize, candy, stuffed animal or a book or if it is their birthday they get a present.
Isabella: I have learned that all my Girl Scout sisters can get along and we worked together in our community for these kids and families.
Jasmine: I think the time I remember the most is that lots of people came to my station and they had a great time. My favorite thing about the parties is to see the kids being happy and playing.
Amazing!
Toys find their forever homes at the stuffed animal adoption station.
Girls love discovering nature with their Girl Scout sisters.
Kicking off a Wild Year T
ake a walk on the wild side! That’s just what hundreds of Nebraska girls did when they launched the new Girl Scout year at our Wild About Nature Kick-Off Parties.
Alliance
Camp Cross Arrows
Girls explored hands-on nature activities that included animal tracking, bird watching, casting, map-reading, scavenger hunts, mudball planting, and investigating creepy, crawly creatures. They tackled inflatable obstacle courses, human foosball, and art projects galore during an amazing day of learning that was all rolled up in sunshine and fun.
Girl Scouts and outside adventures have gone hand-in-hand for more than 100 years. This year, we’re going all out with an extra special emphasis on programs in nature that help girls build skills and try new things. It is time to get outdoors and love it!
ed
Omaha Troop 42146 kicked off their wild year with visitors from Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, learning about native wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems.
Omaha
Find more Wild About Nature opportunities! Visit www.GirlScoutsNebraska.org/Programs.
and oh, so amaz ue iq un so s ut co Girl S It’s what makesyou put your skills to the test! . .L .R .I G a of A n N D he We all share theexamples of what you can do w Here are a few
ing.
GO-GETTER Troop 50336 is a fierce troop of go-getters determined to make the world a better place. This group of Neligh Girl Scouts collected more than 1,000 pounds of items for the Orphan Grain Train in Norfolk. The clothing, baby gear, toiletries, and school supplies will go to communities around the world. But these can-do girls didn’t stop there! They also volunteered at Norfolk’s Mercy Meals, packaging enough food to feed 1,512 people in Haiti, the Philippines, or Zambia.
INNOVATOR Nine visionary G.I.R.L.s shattered stereotypes at our incredible App Camp, co-hosted by Spreetail and the UNL Department of Computer Science and Engineering. These innovators spent three days at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln developing apps, building paper circuits, programming LEGO robots, and working with faculty and student mentors. Calling the camp life-changing, two girls said it solidified their desire to study computer science and programming!
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RISK-TAKER It takes courage to step outside your comfort zone and try new things. Lincoln Girl Scouts from Park Middle School, the Yazidi Dance Away Group, and the Asian Center supported each other as they tackled the Challenge Course at Camp Maha. Working together, facing a challenge head on, being brave – it doesn’t get more Girl Scout than that!
Find out if you’re a Go-Getter, Innovator, Risk-Taker, or Leader. Take the G.I.R.L. quiz at bit.ly/gssnquiz.
LEADER When Brownie Troop 48780 decides to give back, they go all in! The girls adopted Saddlebrook Park through Keep Omaha Beautiful, and got to work weeding, raking, collecting trash, and more. The future leaders didn’t just spruce up the park once; they committed to cleaning it up once a month for a year. That’s how you take the lead like a Girl Scout.
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Volunteers Are the
Heart & Soul E
of Girl Scouts
very year, dedicated Girl Scout volunteers across Nebraska empower more than 16,000 girls to build courage, confidence, and character. Volunteers invest their time, talents, and energy to provide girls a place of their own to try new things and improve their communities. We recently honored volunteers who went the extra mile during the 2016-17 membership year. They were nominated for awards by peers, friends, family, and council staff for their achievements and contributions to the girls they serve. “Often our volunteers shy away from the spotlight,” said Fran Marshall, Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska Chief Executive Officer. “Our volunteer award ceremonies are our opportunity to recognize and thank them for the leadership they provide and their commitment to our girls.
Norfolk Reception
“Through their work, volunteers provide a caring, supportive environment for girls to learn about themselves, what issues are important to them, and how they can make a difference in the world.”
For a complete list of awardees, visit www.GirlScoutsNebraska.org/volunteerawards.
Volunteer of Excellence Nikki Annin, Omaha Ashley Barney, Hastings Sarah Bigge, Omaha Ellie Binder, Wilber Bethany Bishop, Omaha Jennifer Bowland, O’Neill Jessica Brousseau, Omaha Jennifer Burgard-Quaranta, Lincoln Kim Casto, Blair Courtney Child, Olathe Krissy Comstock, Lincoln Kim Deming, Omaha Rhea Dowhower, Omaha Kamber Durham, Papillion Carey Ferguson, Papillion Cathy Ferguson, Grand Island Anna Frederick, North Platte Amy Freouf, Gering Laura Gale, Bloomington Emily Gallagher, Inman Terry Gibbs, Kearney Dawn Green, Lincoln Nicole Griepenstroh, Nebraska City
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Kelly Hansen, Bellevue Haley Hansmeier, Ogallala Deana Henderson, Wahoo Bonnie Horne, Lincoln Laura Houston, Omaha Jenny Jacobson, Bellwood Barbara Johnson, Friend Brittany Korensky, Grand Island Elise Kostbahn, Grand Island Josie Kratzenstein, Omaha Kami Loeffelholz, Pleasanton Tiffany Long, La Vista Beth Ludowese, Kearney Carla Mayhew, Alliance Kala Meyer, Hastings Destaney Mundt, Alliance Amy Nelson, Lincoln Destiny Neal, Alliance Julissa Nesler, Omaha Susan Nissen, St. Edward Jaime Otten, Kearney Yanet Perez, Omaha Sara Peterson, Gering
Jessica Phillips, Lincoln Emma Quintana, Bellevue Ranjina Rai, Omaha Michelle Rasmussen, Alliance Kimberly Regmi, Papillion Erin Remaklus, Lincoln Julisa Reyes, Lexington Jackie Rivas, Denver Stephanie Rodriguez, Pleasanton Jackie Russell, Hastings Erin Sample, Omaha Cassondra Schreiner, Alliance Gloria Smith, Hastings Debbie Stalnaker, Omaha Jenny Stewart, Fremont Tom Sullivan, Lincoln Lauren Tam, Omaha Stacie Turnbull, Waco Danielle Wackler, Valentine Dianna Wells, Plattsmouth Auset Williams, Papillion Karri Woehrle, Eustis Beth Wolfe, Eagle
Omaha Reception
Kearney Reception
Helpful Adult Deanna Anderson, Battle Creek Janel Asche, Gretna Angela Barona, Papillion Orion Burroughs, Milford Mike Canova, Omaha Kendra Coates, Omaha Anne Dorn, Minden Travis Hensley, Omaha Stephanie Herr, Omaha Sarah Hoins, Hastings Rhonda Hopkins, Norfolk Kevin Hughes, Omaha Dan Jacobsen, Omaha Kelsey Jezbera, Kearney Tammy Kester, Creighton
Jackie Lingle, Fremont MJ Matthews, Omaha Tom Maxson, Kearney Sara McPherson, Hastings Shawna Mitchell, O’Neill Nichole Palmer, Lincoln Melodee Pedersen, Columbus Pat Philippi, Kearney Jamie Roberts, Kearney Heidi Sailer, Lincoln Brenda Spiker, Fremont Kim Taylor, Norfolk Dean Vanek, Omaha Jessica Wolfe, Fremont
Appreciation Pin
Honor Pin
Amanda Adams, Indianola Amanda Broderick, Alliance Tanya Cook, Bushnell Melissa Cordell, Alliance Dawn Eisert, Papillion Heather Hall, Laurel Wendy Jamison, Chadron Erika Miles, North Platte Leslie Nelson, Omaha Rosalia Roger, Lincoln Polly Velder, O’Neill
Roxie Boschult, Neligh Carisa McGreer, Kearney Patricia Schafer, Hastings
Thanks Badge Lynette Koehler, Pierce Shandell Sims, North Platte
Thanks Badge II Jill O’Neill, Grand Island
Complete photo gallery on our website!
Carolyn Sloan Spirit of Nebraska Award
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his year’s recipient of the Carolyn Sloan Award is Michele Chambers of Lincoln. For more than 20 years, Michele has been an essential member of the Girl Scout Spirit of Nebraska team. She began her volunteer career in 1993 as a troop leader and continued to volunteer long after her own daughters’ involvement ended. Through the years and endless hours of service, Michele served as a trainer, leader mentor, robotics coach, travel volunteer, council delegate, and on several committees. Her volunteer roles have taken her across the state, around the country, and over international borders, including accompanying girls on trips to England, Ireland, Rome, and, of course, Savannah, Georgia. She is currently a troop leader and the Service Unit Manager of Service Unit 218.
Michele Chambers celebrates with her daughters.
Michele is a true advocate of the Girl Scout mission. She has selflessly sacrificed countless hours and personal resources, leaving a lasting, positive impact on those she helps and serves. She tirelessly promotes the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and champions it to girls and leaders. Under Michele’s tutelage, girls take the lead in decision making and discover new passions. Her dedication to Girl Scouts makes Michele a leader of leaders. She provides guidance to new leaders, inspires adults, and helps volunteers gain confidence. Her constructive feedback and kind support have made the word mentor synonymous with the name Michele Chambers to many Girl Scouts.
Winter Issue 2018
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Back row, left to right: Madeline Prieto, Chyna Delker, Renae Ninneman, and Laura Navratil. Front row, left to right: Emily Stevens, Kaitlyn Young, Alayna Hoffman, and Kristi Deardorff.
On the
adventure of a lifetime A Girl Scout Journey to Japan
by : Emily Stevens Girl Scout Ambassador
In the summer of 2017, six Nebraska Girl Scouts, ages 12 to 17, ventured to Japan on a council-sponsored trip. This unique, international travel opportunity included a home stay with the Girl Guides in Omaha’s sister city, Shizuoka, Japan, located at the foot of Mt. Fuji. The girls also visited Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, all the while gaining key leadership skills and learning to depend on each other.
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he welcome we received in Shizuoka was wonderful and everybody was very kind. Our host family was so nice and treated us like we were part of their family. They were very excited that we were there and asked lots of questions about the United States and the things that we did. My host-mother was wonderful. She was so nice. I enjoyed cooking with her, that was fun. Riona, my host sister was very bubbly and very excited that we were there. Spending time with her and her Girl Scout troop was really great. I hope she can come here someday. Meeting the Mayor of Shizuoka was amazing. It was humbling to meet someone who is in charge of taking care of the city and the people in it. He was a very nice man. Visiting a tea farm was also fun. We learned how a tea farm worked, how they made tea, and learned the right way to pick tea leaves and got to make them into tea. They have the best green tea!
Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyota
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Exploring with the Girl Guides from Omaha’s sister city, Shizuoka. Learning the art of picking tea leaves!
T he s p e ctacu Shrine lar Inari in Kyota .
be a farm would No visit to a te t a chance to ou complete with e tea. pl m sa d an e ak m
It was interesting to experience the collective culture of Japan; the group over an individual. This was a great experience and one that was present everywhere we went. It was refreshing to see a culture where people take care of everybody else first and then themselves. That is very different than the United States. We grow up told we are individuals, we have a right to stand out or stand-up and be heard, and so many times it’s at the expense of others. I think it would be great for everyone to experience the collective culture first-hand and see how doing things in a way that benefits everyone makes life better for everyone rather than just yourself or a select few. This is something I can do in my day-to-day life to make the the world a better place. Visiting Hiroshima was a breathtaking experience. I was a little nervous about visiting because I thought there was going to be some hatred in the air toward us since we are Americans, especially since we visited the memorial on the anniversary of when the U.S. dropped the A-bomb. But, it was not like that at all. The Japanese people seemed happy that we were there, and you could hear that in their voices when we would stop and talk with people throughout the park.
Meeting the Mayor of Shizuoka was a trip highlight. Despite a busy itinerary, there was always time for fabulous photos with new friends.
It was terribly eye opening to see the devastation, especially knowing that our country did this to them, and I really appreciated seeing the bomb dome and how they left everything as it was on that day. It was an unforgettable experience.
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Epic
Summ
arning! Girl Scout camp is not your everyday summer experience. The adventure is high and the fun is big—like, really big! G.I.R.L.s (Go-getters, Innovators, Risk-takers, Leaders) spend the summer trying new things, exploring the great outdoors, making incredible memories with awesome new friends, and so much more.
er!
Enjoy these camp-tastic photos from last year and start planning for next summer! Come ready to play, explore, discover, and have the time of your life. It’s going to be epic.
Horsingd Aroun
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Team Building
Join Us
!
Find yo ur adventu next camping re in th e 2018 Gi rl’s Guid e Summe r Fun or to v G i r l S co utsNeb isit raska.o rg.
New ts Talen
s F F B ever!
My Summer Place made time off from school even more amazing for these Omaha girls.
for
STEM Discover y
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Flag for Memories
Power in Papillion Pink
The Papillion Police Department enjoyed hanging out with future women leaders when six Girl Scout troops visited the station. Girls from Daisies to Seniors learned about law enforcement and supported the department’s Pink Patch Project, which raises money to fight cancer. Fabulous fun patches that bling up a uniform and take a stand? Perfect in pink!
Meet an ambitious group of Grand Island girls: Brownie Troop 00044. These community champions recently volunteered at the local Heartland Food Bank. They were delighted to discover how amazing it is to give back and are eagerly exploring more ways to make the world a better place!
Rain, Rain, Down the Drain
Troop 20811 entered a drawing in the UpStream Art Project for a chance to paint one of 10 designated storm drains in Lincoln. Not only was their entry selected, but the Lincoln Children’s Museum requested that their drawing be used for its storm drain. Next up for these go-getters, using their powerful Take Action project to teach younger girls the importance of caring for the planet.
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Happy Heartland Helpers
Leave it to Girl Scouts to step up and inspire others. Girl Scouts from Service Unit 11 led the opening flag ceremony for the Fremont Area Alzheimer’s Memory Walk that raises awareness of the disease and funds for research. Supporting families and people with Alzheimer’s gave the generous group of girls great pride!
Girl Scouts Never Forget
Four years ago, St. Patrick’s Catholic School began a wonderful, patriotic tradition honoring families affected by September 11. Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts wear their uniforms and perform a flag ceremony before classes. This year, more than 100 Girl Scouts in kindergarten through eighth grade donned their uniforms to pay their respects. Living the Girl Scout Law has never been so touching.
Nebraska girl delegates celebrate the power of G.I.R.L. during the national convention.
G.I.R.L.s
The Greatest Gathering of
The largest girl-led event for girls and young women in the world was an epic celebration of go-getters, innovators, risk-takers, and leaders! Hailey Fuqua, of Shelton Troop 00610, tells us what it was like to attend G.I.R.L. 2017 in Columbus, Ohio, last October.
by : Hailey Fuqua Girl Scout Cadette JG: Why did you want to go to the national
JG: What kind of cool stuff did you bring
Girl Scout convention?
Hailey: Lots of SWAPS, the delegate books, a
Hailey: For the leadership experience. JG: What are some of the things you did? Hailey: I met some alumni from other councils late one
evening and was given some retired patches to work on. I had a really good time hanging out with Jennifer Bowland [a Nebraska adult delegate] who helped get me into doing SWAPS. The other Nebraska girl delegates are part of the Nebraska Girl Scout Advisory Group (GSAG), so I have now expressed interest in joining that group. I also visited the Hall of Experiences.
JG: Most girls won’t get to visit the Hall of Experience.
What was that like?
Hailey: I was able to see lots of different programs and
home from the convention?
services that are offered to Girl Scouts. Exchanging SWAPS was a great way to meet girls from around the country.
rk their ma Girls left vention. n at the co
special delegate bag, and lots of free items from the Hall of Experiences.
JG: What was the most fun? Hailey: Meeting new people and doing SWAPS. JG: Which speakers were your favorite? Hailey: This was actually the girl delegates because
they were up there voicing their opinions which are like mine.
JG: What did you learn about Girl Scouts
that you didn’t know before?
Hailey: Some states only allow adult delegates. I’m
glad that in Nebraska girls get to have a voice.
JG: Tell us what you experienced
that you will NEVER forget!
Hailey: The new friends that
I made on this trip.
COLUMBUS, OH
2017 GO-GE
TTER OR
AT INNOV
ER -TAK RISK LEADE R
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Troop 45325 won the Zipping into History contest on Facebook. They became the first troop to ride the Zip Line Tour at Camp Crossed Arrows.
ZIPPING by : Kassie Brabec Girl Scout Junior
Int o
The Best Day Ever! This year for Girl Scout camp, I got butterflies in my tummy when I heard that my troop (Troop 50679) and I would get to go ziplining at Camp Crossed Arrows. When we got up on Saturday morning, I was a little scared but excited. The zip line helpers came to the Troop House and helped us get into the zip line gear. In all that heavy gear, I knew I was going to be safe. We headed out to the first platform and my heart was beating fast. The zip line helpers made sure we were safe at all times. I hesitated a little at first, but the helpers hooked me up and encouraged me, telling me it would be a lot of fun. As I walked off the platform, I started whizzing through the air and screamed, “This is so much fun!� When I reached the other side, the helpers unhooked me and got me safely down with a smile. From then on, the next 4 zip lines were more and more fun. On the fifth and last one there was a really deep creek we went over. It made me feel so small. I was so sad when it was over. I wished that I could do it every day. It was the BEST day ever!
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Y HISTORHIGH-FLYING by : Alexis Smith Girl Scout Cadette
Troop Wins Contest To Be First Riders A new Zip Line Course was recently built at Camp Crossed Arrows in Nickerson, Nebraska. Girl Scout Troop 45325’s middle school and high school girls were the winners of a contest and had the opportunity to try the new course first. The course has five zip line stations and will be open to both Girl Scout troops and the public. It was rainy and pretty cold the day we got all geared up and headed for the course. Once we arrived at the first zip line, the trained professionals took it from there. They hooked us up, and we zipped down the lines. It was a blast! I have been ziplining multiple times before but this was one of my favorite courses. Zip Line 5 was my favorite because it was one of the fastest and went over a ravine in the forest.
ADVENTURE
First and only zip line tour in Nebraska!
5 zip line stations
2,300-foot course
460 feet
Average zip length Speeds up to
25 mph
54 feet
Highest station
3-hour tour
emergency shelter
Troop 42173 loves to tackle a challenge, so they jumped full STEM ahead into the new Think Like an Engineer Journey.
ENGINEERING New JOURNEY
ADVENTURES
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June 1-3, 2018
Nebraska National Forest at Halsey Girl Scouts from all across Nebraska will be gathering at the Nebraska National Forest at Halsey for a weekend of outdoor fun. Choose activities such as archery, hiking, crafts, games, square dancing, and even horseback riding! Campfires and s’mores, too!
here’s a whole new batch of Girl Scout STEM Journeys and badges to pursue! Everything you and your leaders need to complete the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math adventures is now available in the Volunteer Toolkit (VTK). Melanie Boudreault and her Juniors jumped right into the new STEM Think Like an Engineer Journey. In true G.I.R.L. fashion, the innovators of Troop 42173 adapted the Journey to make it the girl-led project they wanted to complete! The girls don’t often get to create big projects, so they chose to build full-size emergency shelters, rather than selecting the doll-size option. The girls also tapped into their grit, determination, and perseverance as they tackled the Journey and some challenges they encountered. “They were excited, then very frustrated, but they made it work,” Melanie said. “The shelters were not perfect, but they were able to practice the design process.”
What is a ? Camporee
camp.o.ree / kamp ' re/ ' noun a local or regional camping event for Girl Scouts.
Nebrask National F a ore
st
Halsey
Work hard, keep trying, and learn something new. That’s the Girl Scout way!
For more information go to
GirlScoutsNebraska.org. 16
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Cowgirl up! The girls (and horses) logged many miles in the Nebraska National Forest at Halsey.
MANES,CRANES, and Preserving the Plains After two years of planning, we welcomed Girl Scouts from across the country to saddle up for a two-week Girl Scout Destinations trip exploring the Nebraska countryside.
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ow! This destination went by so quick. It felt like a blink of an eye. My experience started at 9 a.m. at the Cincinnati, Ohio, airport. As soon as I arrived in Omaha I quickly got off the plane to find my Girl Scout tour leader to proceed to camp with her. While everyone was slowly arriving at the Lakeview Cabin camp, we did some card games and had so much fun starting to get to know each other. The opening get to know each other games were different, but rewarding and effective. There were girls from Texas, Nebraska, Iowa, Washington, New Jersey, and the closest to me of course was Ohio. I was excited to meet someone from my home state of Ohio, as these are the girls it is easier to reunite with in the future. I thought that it was cool that I got to meet new people from around the states and also got to trade swaps with all the girls. Some of the girls sure came up with some cute swaps. I will never forget my new-found friends. Now I would love to talk about the horse portion of the Destination. This was my real reason for attending the Destination. I love horses! Every day we rode with “Dusty Trails.” Dusty, Lenae, Dentry, and E were a really big portion of this trip which I will NEVER forget. Dusty gave us challenges that made us grow as riders and never let us give up. He made Nebraska feel like home to me.
by : Kelly Tracey Girl Scout Cadette from Monroe, Ohio I will never forget Josey most of all. One day Josey decided she would step on my boot. Every time I put my boots on I’m going to remember Josey as she left a dent in my boot. Now I guess I know the reason we must wear boots and not tennis shoes. Well, of course, this Destination was not all about horses. There were obviously a few service projects involved with it. The one I will never forget was when we went to the farmers market and did a pancake feed. This was no normal pancake feed like I have done in the past with other groups. It was for girls like me who cannot afford to go on fun, life-turning challenges like this Destination. The feed touched me as I am one of the girls who received money to get me to this Destination. I feel like I paid it forward for other girls just like me. I cannot thank Girl Scouts enough for helping me get to where I am in life and within Girl Scouts. The experience has really changed me.
My two horses for the weeks were Josey and Red. We rode in multiple, beautiful sceneries morning, noon and night. Oh, how can I describe the beautiful sunsets we saw? The group explored the moonlike rock formations at Toadstool Geological Park near Crawford, Nebraska.
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x ! 3 E YW YWEAchieve
H
sively for s are exclu determined m ra g ro p E YW are l girls, who high schoo G. These interactive IN on , to be AMAZ romote self-explorati p ls s workshop ss skills, and help gir e teach busin ng leaders. o tr b e com e s
The girls explored their Girl Scout DNA by identifying their internal G.I.R.L. strengths.
Young Women Entrepreneurs Achieve
igh school girls explored the world of business, developed leadership skills, and experienced campus life during Young Women Entrepreneurs Achieve (YWEAchieve).
Developed with the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s College of Business Administration, the workshop included goal setting, budget management, business ethics, networking, dressing for success, and more. Plus, there was plenty of time for making new friends, taking cool field trips (hello, Borsheims!), and hanging out in the dorms.
YWECamp
I
Young Women Executives Camp
learned many things about myself at YWECamp. I learned about who I am as a person, and the woman I want to become. The staff and the people in charge are amazing.
I would like everyone, including non-Girl Scouts, to be able to experience something like this! It was one big happy place where there was no drama, no fighting, and we all got along. I learned that everyone has hardships, and you may not realize what’s going on in someone else’s life unless you walk in their shoes. You just need to open up, not hide from problems, and talk to someone about it. And that’s what our mentors are for. They were like our big sisters, and we were their little sisters. The mentors were truly amazing. They told us their life stores, did crafts and activities with us, they are there for us to talk to whenever we need them, and they even did the high ropes course with us.
by: Laura Stehlik Girl Scout Senior
Laura Stehlik and her mentor, attorney Jenny Schuelke, work together on a flower pressing project.
It was a great bonding experience, and it felt like a little getaway. I also learned you can have friends outside of the town you live in or the school you go to, you just have to find them. Learning etiquette before the dinner was very informational and fun. It is something we will use down the road. Also dressing up and getting ready with the girls was an awesome experience. I will never forget this experience and will cherish the memories forever.
Group photo time at UNO’s Mammel Hall. Everybody say, “YWE!”
by: Maysaa Khalaf Girl Scout Ambassador
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YWE Lead
Maysaa bravely shared her story as the welcome speaker at this year’s YWE3Lead.
H
ello everyone, my name is Maysaa Khalaf. I’m a junior in North Star High School, and I moved to the United States last year from Iraq. I am Yazidi, which is a type of religion. My family and I were targeted by ISIS because of our religion, and we were relocated many times before finally making it to the U.S. in June of 2016. I’m honored to be welcoming all of you here today to the YWE3Lead Conference, because this is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to hear from one another, hear from women who are leaders in their industries, and, most importantly, set us up to be the leaders of tomorrow. Many women from my country and other countries around the world do not have opportunities like this, because women do not have the voice in those countries that they have here. For that reason, I am so glad to be a part of this conference today, and excited for all of you to be here, too.
The empowered, engaging and educated leaders of Elkhorn Troop 43846!
Young Women Empower, Engage, Educate, and Lead
I have taken part in one other YWE program, YWECamp, and after that experience I learned that I am in charge of my own life, and that women need to empower one another to do the same. YWECamp was my first camp. It was my first time staying away from my house with people whom I had never met, and I was nervous to go! However, I ended up meeting a lot of wonderful people, people similar to me and different from me. Despite our differences, my favorite part of camp was feeling the love and care of all the mentors and mentees. My camp mentor, Xinrou, changed my life forever when she said, “You’re NOT perfect, and it is OK!” This sentence may be short, but it helped me to understand that the only thing stopping me is me. I love the idea of Girl Scouts; how all the women involved try their best to help each other, and to share their power with young girls. I’m so happy to be part of this organization, and to be the leader of my own life, and I hope the same for all of you!
Keynote speaker Amy Freeman inspired girls with stories about the year she and her husband spent in the northern Minnesota wilderness.
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Girl Scout Alumnae bonded during awesome camp activities from canoeing to The Giant Swing.
Getting Away with
Great
Dalyce
Girl Scout Alumnae
by : Dalyce Ronnau Girl Scout Alumnae (and Man Enough to Be a Girl Scout)
I
had the pleasure of attending both Always-a-Girl Scout Retreats this fall. What better way to have fun and fellowship than by heading to camp with fellow Girl Scouts?
activities that included tai chi, archery, hiking, a group art project, and challenge course elements (bosun chairs, a zip line, and the Giant Swing).
My first retreat was at Lakeview Cabin near North Platte with 28 other Girl Scout aficionados. In true Girl Scout fashion, we started with an ice breaker, where I was surprised to learn the attendees had come from all over the state – from Omaha to Ogallala!
The Giant Swing was the one element I had never experienced, so it was high on my bucket list. After being safely buckled in by staff and hoisted high in the air, the release was pulled and WHEEEEE, what a ride! I would recommend everyone try the Giant Swing.
We enjoyed camp activities, including canoeing, kayaking, archery, sand castle building, hiking (sand burrs and all), crafts, and goofing off, if so inclined. We wrapped with memory sharing that had our nostalgia running rampant, a palate-tempting dinner, and s’mores around a campfire on the beach with an accordion accompaniment. I had a great time and am so glad I made the journey from Lincoln!
The day closed around a campfire, sharing memories, eating s’mores, and, of course, singing songs.
On the following Saturday, a similar alumnae retreat was held at Camp Catron near Nebraska City. The morning was spent touring Kimmel Orchard and learning its history.
Dalyce is a recent recipient of the 50 Years of Volunteer Service Pin for his time as a Girl Scout parent, assistant leader, annual donor, and current and past leader and member of many boards.
Back at camp, we were treated to a meal of tacos and all the fixin’s. After lunch, the attendees scattered to take part in
I am thrilled the council has taken such an interest in us adult Girl Scouts and can’t wait until next year’s trip down memory lane. I’m certain I speak for all those who attended either or both retreats: a BIG THANK YOU for a great time!
Catron
Lakeview
What is a Girl Scout Alumnae? An Alumnae is any former Girl Scout member, current or former registered adult member, volunteer, parent, staff, or board member. If you’ve supported Girl Scouts in your life and identify as an Alumnae, we invite you back! Join our Alumnae Association today at www.girlscoutsnebraska.org/alumnae.
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Bidding Farewell to a
I
Beloved
Benefactor
t is with great sadness that we share the news that Robert Catron, long-time supporter of Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska and namesake of our beautiful Catron Camp and Retreat Center in Nebraska City, passed away September 18, 2017, at age 94. In 1945, Robert and his brother Eugene donated 67 acres of “Catron Farms” to Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska in honor of their grandparents, James H. and Ruth M. Catron. The vision of this generous gift was to establish and build a Girl Scout camp, which was subsequently named for the family.
Robert Catron 1923 - 2017
I
Affectionately referred to as Mr. Catron by many in Girl Scouting, Robert was a wonderful supporter of Camp Catron and the council through the years – helping to build and maintain the camp property and subsidizing summer programming to ensure the cost was kept low for girls. Additionally, he rented a camp in Scottsbluff annually to ensure underserved girls on the western side of Nebraska could experience camp. We will greatly miss Mr. Catron’s kindness, wit, and support.
Spy Microscope’s with My
W
a Tiny Cyclops!
…
hat do you get when you build a tiny ecosystem and an itty, bitty computer to process data from that ecosystem? A cyclops-eye view of little critters and their world, of course! At Coding for Critters, these innovators created mason jar ecosystems complete with miniscule animals. Then, they observed their creations through microscopes, collected data, and built computers to process the data. Each participant had a blast learning about cyclopes (some of the tiny critters living in their ecosystems) and Raspberry Pis (not the delicious kind, but tiny computers). The two-day collaboration with The Tech Monsters, a local non-profit organization that teaches tech literacy, also encouraged girls to stay curious about science and technology. And, fostering that curiosity inspires the much-needed, next generation of female scientists and computer engineers, who are ready and willing to change the world!
copes to Girls used micros tiny critters y, en te e th discover ystems. os ec r ei th in g in liv
Scientific discovery is serious business for these future leaders.
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Millard Merriment Folks attending the Millard Days Parade were treated to sunshine and the sweet smiles of three Girl Scout troops. The innovators of Troop 44393 built a float fit for a queen, then piled on to wave at the crowds. Troops 41365 and 42362 crafted clever signs and marched alongside the float.
Girl Scouts on Parade While Girl Scouts of the USA dazzled the Macy’s Day Parade with a fabulous float – and hundreds of you earned a special patch in our Parade Scavenger Hunt – Nebraska Girl Scouts marched to their own drummers in parades across the state. Here are s’more fantastic photos we received recently!
A Caramel deLite-ful Celebration Girl Scout Troops 43633 and 43637 used the Gretna Days Parade to celebrate 100 years of Girl Scouts selling cookies. Honoring Thin Mints and giving candy to spectators led the girls to say Thanks-A-Lot for their second-place victory among parade walking groups! Brooklynn
Joined by Juliette After Brooklynn Gdowski saw an article about Flat Juliette in a previous issue of The Juliette Gazette, the Brownie decided Flat Juliette should walk in the 50th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade! So, the delightfully decorated flat version of Girl Scout founder Juliette Gordon Low joined Brooklynn, Troop 00117, and the older O’Neill Girl Scouts in the festive march across the Irish Capital of Nebraska.
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Happy Birthday, Nebraska! An elaborate four-story cake, plus a tent and “campfire” adorned a magnificent Girl Scout float celebrating Nebraska’s sesquicentennial in the Harvest of Harmony parade. Nearly 100 girls from surrounding communities united in Grand Island to show off their Girl Scout pride. They handed out 4,100 pieces of candy and 400 bags of Girl Scout information. The very best part: a first-place victory in the children’s division, complete with a trophy, purple rosette, and cash prize. That’s called marching to victory!
Way Too
T
Kool
in
Hastings
he World’s Largest Kool-Aid Stand broke its own size record thanks to the work of some go-getter Girl Scouts. Prior to the 20th annual Kool-Aid Days celebration in Hastings, Cadette Troop 00107 and Junior Troop 01477 worked with board members to build an all new, 80-foot beverage stand. From sanding, drilling, and assembling frames to painting panels, the girls helped craft the mammoth booth, which boasted 20 flavors of Kool-Aid during the festivities. Sadly, there’s not a Peanut Butter Patties flavor of the state’s official soft drink – at least not yet! Enthusiastic girls from many Hastings troops also donned their Girl Scout gear and took to the streets as part of the Kool-Aid Days walking parade. OH, YEAH!
Hastings Girl Scouts worked with members of the Kool-Aid Days event committee to build the new, gigantic beverage stand.
T The new World’s Largest Kool-Aid Stand debuted during the festival, thanks to the help of Hastings Girl Scouts!
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o
& t about
In Our Own Backyard Girl Scouts love to travel, and you don’t have to go far to discover the most amazing things! The St. Edward Brownie, Junior, and Cadette troops tackled the Nebraska Passport Program last year on a trip to western Nebraska. They collected 11 stamps as they journeyed through Kearney, Cozad, North Platte, Paxton, Ogallala, Sidney, Gering, and Lewellen. Whew, now that’s a road trip!
Big, Bright, Bridging Smiles Few things are more exciting than the time-honored tradition of Girl Scout bridging. Hastings Troop 00012 took off their Daisy tunics for the very last time as they bridged to Brownies. Beaming from ear-to-ear, these go-getters are ready to take off on their next great Girl Scout adventure.
Sweet Summertime The girls of Troop 10202 didn’t take the summer off or let the heat slow them down. Not afraid to try new things, the Girl Scouts from Chadron and Alliance spent their time away from school throwing clay pots, visiting the Greenhouse in the Snow, and dabbling in a Bob Ross painting class where they learned there are no mistakes, only happy accidents!
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Kindness Rocks Pet rocks may be ancient history, but Adams Troop 20372 knows that classic rock never goes out of style. The girls painted rocks and hid them in the community to spread joy. Those who find these treasures are encouraged to re-hide them, paying the fun forward. The troop even started a Facebook page – Adams Rocks – to help the project rock on!
Stop and Smell the Roses Life moves pretty fast, so Troop 00610 stopped to look around for a while. On their way to ride horses at Nebraska National Forest at Halsey, the girls took an impromptu break at a charming park in Anselmo, Nebraska, for a little horsing around!
Science Is the New Cool Earning badges is always exhilarating, but making raisins dance really kicks it up a notch! Troop 20631 marveled at the wonders of science while tackling their Home Scientist Badge. They were especially impressed by the ability to inflate balloons with a seemingly magical mixture of vinegar and baking soda.
Savannah Calling Girl Scout founder Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace called to Troop 20705. The inquisitive adventurers attended QuestFest, a two-day Girl Scout scavenger hunt through the Historic District of Savannah, Georgia. The twist? Teams collected experiences, not items, using a special smart phone app. Juliette would have been proud!
Do Not Look Directly at the Sun! The 2017 total solar eclipse passed right over Nebraska, bringing fame, fortune, and many, many visitors as the moon prepared to photobomb the sun! Honor Troop 45523 was totally prepared for the rare phenomenon in their “snazzy” and official Girl Scout Solar Eclipse Glasses. Naturally their meeting that evening was STEM-focused and star-studded.
Stop, Drop, and Smile Safety first! Fire Station 78 was the perfect setting for Omaha Brownie Troop 41358 to work on their First Aid Badge. After an outstanding tour and tons of questions for the firefighters, the girls were all grins as they got a chance to pose with the fire truck.
Over the Rainbow Super Slumber Parties Lots of girls do sleepovers, but the innovators of Troop 43012 do their slumber parties in style! These creative G.I.R.L.s cozied up with the animals for an overnight at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, and camped out at Werner Park after a Storm Chasers baseball game. Sleeping was optional at these awesome outings!
Up, Up, and Away At the end of their Brownie Fly-Up Ceremony, the girls of Troop 43269 each released two balloons, one brown and one green. In a sweet, spontaneous moment, the girls wrapped their arms around each other as they watched the balloons “fly-up” into the sky. Being a sister to every Girl Scout sure makes the world a friendly place!
Take the Long Way Home The Show Me State became the See Me State for Troops 44645 and 42607 when they spent seven days traveling across Missouri. The whirlwind journey included the National Ozark Scenic RiverWays, the Gateway Arch, an overnight in Branson, cave tours, and a thrill-filled day at Six Flags amusement park.
Cadette Troop 20712 transformed from Girl Scout Green to a spectrum of hues worthy of a Trolls celebration while volunteering for the Hill Elementary School color run. This was the second year the Lincoln girls let their true colors shine through at this festive fundraiser.
GIRL WRITTEN? We Will Publish! We LOVE to hear from our girl members. When we get a story written by a girl author, we will publish it in the JG!
Send your girl-written stories to marketing@girlscoutsnebraska.org and be sure to include photos.
Look for Stories Written by Girls.
They’re the BEST!
Wading into Fun Terrific temporary tattoos and oodles of outdoor fun were at the top of the agenda when Brownies from Troop 50473 attended Omaha’s World O! Water event. The Fremont girls learned a ton and soaked up the FUN as they worked on their Wow! Wonders of Water Journey.
A A
One Is Silver … Camping Is “Intents!” Before you hit the great outdoors, you have to be prepared. To earn their Camping Badge, Morton Middle School Troop 84184 worked together to learn how to pitch a tent. We recommend edible fires, campfire songs, and Girl Scout S’mores Cookies for future camp prep meetings!
One of the best things about Girls Scouts is making new friends (and keeping the old). That’s why the Making Friends Badge is one of our favorites. Highland Elementary Troop 84409 strengthened the bonds of friendship, learned to resolve conflicts, and practiced being a sister to every Girl Scout while earning this badge based on kindness and caring. … And the other is gold.
Fairy Tale Trip
group of 14 Girl Scouts and adults from Troop 45483 spent an amazing 10 days exploring Austria, Germany, and Switzerland this summer. From overlooking Vienna atop the world’s highest chain carousel, to watching the Glockenspiel in Munich, to visiting Our Chalet in Adelboden, Switzerland, the trip was filled with colorful sights, great food, and remarkable experiences. The group loved touring the fairy tale castle of King Ludwig. Called Neuschwanstein Castle, it inspired Walt Disney to create Cinderella’s castle. Other highlights included posing on the steps in Salzburg where the von Trapp children sang “Do Re Mi” in the Sound of Music; seeing the Swiss Alps and spending time at Our Chalet; touring through the Black Forest region in Germany; and learning how cuckoo clocks are made. For Cadette Elizabeth, Our Chalet was the most interesting: “I have heard about Our Chalet ever since I was a little girl because my mother wanted to go there since she was a Brownie and learned the Chalet song. There is a patch wall with patches from girls who have visited from all over the world. As we arrived, there was a welcoming ceremony. The Chief Guide shook our hands and we got our special ‘Our Chalet’ pin.” Cadette Leanne wrote: “The architecture [in Germany] was beautiful with all its detail. I got to learn about a king who made his life a fantasy. He built a castle similar to what you would see in a child’s book.”
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High up in the Swiss Alps, Troop 45483 visited Our Chalet, which has provided adventure and friendship since 1932.
Senior Girl Scout Katheryn said the amazing trip was her first time traveling to other countries. She was surprised how easy it was to get around and see the sights of Vienna. She really enjoyed touring the castles and palaces, and the bike tour in Munich. Senior Scout Caitlyn said it was one of the best trips of her life: “We worked hard to fundraise for this trip, so it really felt like we accomplished something when we earned our way. It was all worth it when we got to see new places, meet new people, and explore our world.”
Girls formed life-long friendships during their international adventure to Quebec.
, r u o j n o B Quebec!
S
ix Nebraska Girl Scouts packed their passports and headed north on an international adventure to Quebec, a predominately French-speaking province in eastern Canada. The “amazingly awesome” trip included hikes with breathtaking waterfall views and tours of intricately designed churches and luxury hotels. But the adventurers said making new friends was the true highlight of the trip! “The fact that we bonded together right away just proved we were a perfect group,” said Laura Stehlik of Nebraska City. “It was definitely a trip to remember with memories to last a lifetime.” “My favorite part about our group was how we all got along, and we all made memories together,” said Tara Maddox, also of Nebraska City. The girls also gained independence while learning to work together, especially when they unexpectedly ended up in New York City for two days when their connecting flight home was cancelled! “Sometimes when you take a planned adventure, there’s a plot twist and you end up experiencing a whole new adventure along the way,” said Shelby Kittle of Ord. The reward for the trek to the Mont-Royal observatory was this remarkable view of Montreal.
h s r i p a l o h c s l e trav able! avail
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Are you ready to tackle a council-sponsored travel quest? Don’t let financial concerns keep your dreams from coming true. The Tyler Cherrington Travel Scholarship (up to $500) is available to help you travel and explore. Apply at bit.ly/TyScholarship by March 1, 2018.
RAISRING
E VOBEIC T TER
YOU
FOR A
WORLD
When you’re a G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)™ you do great things. You believe in taking action and in righting the wrongs you see. You know we are more powerful together than we are apart. You make your voice heard – with bold moves like advocating for positive change in your community, standing up against everyday injustices, mobilizing others to donate to or volunteer for causes, meeting with public officials and community leaders to educate them about important issues, and lots more. You are the power behind the G.I.R.L. Agenda. Every girl has a voice. And, every girl’s voice is important – including yours. Use your voice for good while earning Civic Action badges. Learn how by downloading Girl Scouts Civic Action Guides at bit.ly/2B1Hnr1. Share your story with us and on social media, using #GirlScoutsTakeAction, and enter our Girl Scouts Take Action Contest!
GIRL SCOUTS Take Action! One of the best parts about being a Girl Scout is helping other people while making the world a better place. That’s a reward all its own! But because we like to recognize all the good Girl Scouts are doing for our communities and our world, we’re announcing a new Girl Scouts Take Action Contest!
Here’s how it works:
1
Get inspired, get prepared, and get mobilized by checking out the Civic Action Guides at bit.ly/2B1Hnr1.
2
Determine with your troop or as an individual what kind of civic action you’d like to take.
3
Learn the badge requirements for your level at bit.ly/2oucdmf.
Cont Aleret st !
4
Take action – and take pictures!
5
Share the story of your civic action with us at marketing@girlscoutsnebraska.org by May 30, 2018.
6
Each troop or individual who submits a story will be entered into a random drawing to win a two-day stay at one of our camps and a feature on the cover of the JG magazine!
Girl Scouts have a long legacy of powerful civic action. Now it’s your turn to raise your voice and make positive change! Questions? Email us at marketing@girlscoutsnebraska.org!
#GirlScoutsTakeAction
2121 S 44TH STREET OMAHA NE 68105
THERE IS POWER IN EVERY
G.I.R.L.
Find yours in Girl Scouts. Join now at GirlScoutsNebraska.org.